Chinese Red Birch

Betula albosinensis Fascination, also known as Chinese Red Birch, is a species of Birch tree that is similar to Betula utilis Jacquemontii, but with a twist!

Like all Birch trees, this one is notable for its attractive bark which is rich orange-red or orange-brown and peels off in sheets to reveal another layer of bark, each slightly lighter in colour than the last. When wet with rain, the young bark shimmers, looking almost iridescent. Once the tree reaches over 30cm in girth, the bark is a most striking stark white, contrasting nicely with the darker branching of the tree canopy. Betula albosinensis Fascination is a refined clone of albosinensis, sporting dark green leaves, which are large for Birch and appear in April along with a showy display of yellow catkins which are up to 10cm in length.

Like all Birch, this tree is a fairly consistent performer and will thrive in most soils. The branching structure is quite dense for a Birch tree; this and the fact the leaves are large and dark make this a useful species for screening.

Betula albosinensis Fascination is a medium-sized, pyramidal-shaped tree that has stiffly ascending branches and a uniform shape; it is perfect for any scheme where consistency and architectural structure are a key consideration.

The stunning dark branching and coloured bark of this birch make it a standout feature, especially during the gloomy winter months. Placing it against darker backgrounds will accentuate its best features. Despite being often overlooked for the more popular Betula utilis Jacquemontii, this fantastic birch deserves prominence.

Mature height: 7-12m

Common names

Chinese Red Birch

Height of tree

7-12m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Oval

Foliage Colour

Green

Information Flags

Bark interest

Looks good in

Winter

Location

Garden, Avenue

Genus

Betula